MBI Seminar

Time: 3pm
Date: Thursday, 15 April 2021

Tools and models for the study of shape- and matrix-density mediated changes in calcium signalling in breast cancer cells

By Choon Leng So, The University of Queensland, Australia (Host: Chii Jou Chan)

Abstract
Our understanding of breast cancers has improved. However, despite new treatment options, the prognosis for certain breast cancer subtypes such as the triple-negative breast cancer remains poor. Precancerous and cancerous cells not only receive chemical signals from their microenvironment they can also receive mechanical signals from their surrounding matrix which may promote cancer cell growth or metastasis. One signalling pathway which can be linked to mechanical signals is calcium signalling. Calcium signalling has been shown to govern a variety of processes associated with cancer progression, such as proliferation and resistance to chemotherapies. However, our understanding of how calcium signalling is remodelled by physical microenvironment in cancer is incomplete. We focused on examining two types of mechanical cues – matrix stiffness and cell morphological changes, and their impact on calcium signalling in breast cancer cells. This seminar will showcase some tools and models utilised for our work, including calcium indicators, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, high-content imaging system, high-throughput cellular screening system, hydrogel models and micropatterned model.

Biography
Choon Leng received her Bachelor of Science (Pharmacy) First Class Honours from the National University of Singapore (NUS). She then practiced as a pharmacist in Tan Tock Seng Hospital for about four years before pursuing a doctoral degree in Australia. She is now a final year PhD student at The University of Queensland, Australia under the direction of Professor Gregory Monteith and Professor Sarah Roberts-Thomson. Her research focuses on how physical microenvironment of tumour can alter calcium signalling and how they affect cancer progression.

Please note this event is open to MBI researchers and invited guests only.

Address your questions/concerns to the MBI ITCore at mbit@nus.edu.sg if you face any issue with the ZOOM sign-in.